What are you doing for Saint Patrick’s Day?

Yes, it’s that time of year again, Ireland’s National holiday, celebrated worldwide. And Wexford’s really where it’s at, here’s why…

Who?

Saint Patrick is Ireland’s national saint, and he is credited with bringing Christianity to Ireland. He used the 3-leafed shamrock to explain the concept of the Holy Trinity to the pagan Irish. To this day, it is a tradition to wear shamrock on St Patrick’s Day. And in keeping with another tradition, our new Taoiseach, (our Prime Minister, pronounced tee-shock), Enda Kenny, will present a glass bowl filled with shamrock to US President Barak Obama in the Whitehouse.

What?

There are lots of celebratory events in Ireland and internationally. This year, Wexford is privileged to host “Skyfest” for the National Lottery next Saturday, March 19 on the Quays in Wexford. There will be a spectacular fireworks display to light up the river Slaney and the whole harbour front, 6.30pm to 8.30pm. A 300m wide curtain of pyrotechnic silver fire is planned and the whole event will be choreographed to a mesmerising soundtrack. Can’t make it? Well, the event will be televised on RTE1 from 7.30pm.

There are parades scheduled for many cities around the world, and The Sydney Opera House, London Eye, Toronto’s CN Tower and New York’s Empire State building will all be lit by green floodlights.

When?

It’s kind of a long celebration. Most towns have a parade organised for this Thursday, March 17 and of course, Wexford is turning it into a very long weekend indeed with Skyfest.

Where?

Here, but of course! I got so excited researching the day, (and ok, I admit it, playing with the Apps, see below), that I almost forgot the shameless plug for Kilmore Cottage! Yes, at time of writing, there’s still 1cottage left for St Patrick’s weekend, offering ridiculously good value! Choices:

Head on over to the booking page and book yourself in (you can also check availability and prices there), or